Dry Skin Treatment in Land O Lakes, FL

Understanding Your Dry Skin

Dry skin, also known as xerosis, is characterized by skin that is dehydrated and irritated. In more severe dry skin cases, the skin may also be red and inflamed and have deep cracks—called fissures—that extend into deeper layers of the skin. These features can develop on any part of the body but are typically more prominent on the face, hands, arms, and legs.

In most cases, dry skin is a nuisance but does not represent a serious health problem; however, chronic dry skin may indicate a dermatological condition, such as psoriasis or eczema, is at play, or signal an underlying health condition, such as diabetes or hypothyroidism. If you experience persistent dry skin, it is important to meet with a healthcare practitioner who can rule out any underlying health concerns.

Fortunately, many natural treatments, over-the-counter products, and lifestyle modifications are available to help heal your dry, irritated skin. To schedule a consultation with a healthcare practitioner in Land O Lakes who specializes in dry skin treatment, call (727) 312-4126 or contact Evolution online.

What Causes Dry Skin?

Your skin is an organ that relies both on hydration and moisture. The skin's soft and pliable texture is due to its water content; when the skin is dehydrated, your skin appears less supple and may cause itchiness, increased sensitivity, fine lines, and wrinkles. Sweat and oil glands, as well as natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) in the skin, help to maintain the skin's moisture content and prevent water from evaporating from the skin.

Many internal and external factors can influence the moisture and hydration of your skin, including:

Harsh soaps

Dry air

Low humidity

Taking long, hot showers or baths

Exposure to environmental toxins

Medications, including diuretics and topical retinoid creams

The prevalence of dry skin also increases with age due to physiological changes of the skin such as decreased activity of the oil glands, thinning of the skin and loss of elasticity. Hormonal imbalances such as decreased estrogen production can also contribute to dry skin symptoms.

Dry skin may also develop as the result of an underlying health condition. These dry skin conditions include:

Dry Skin Remedies

Treatment of dry skin is often dependent on the underlying factors which influence the skin's hydration and moisture content. For individuals that experience mild to moderate dry skin, treatment with lifestyle changes, moisturizers, and natural remedies can significantly improve the skin's condition. Early treatment can also prevent complications, such as open wounds and skin infections from occurring.

Applying a moisturizing lotion after a shower and several times daily to dry skin

Other dry skin remedies to consider include:

Avoiding antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers

Using a humidifier in your home

Avoiding behaviors which can aggravate dry skin, such as itching or scrubbing

Avoiding itchy clothing such as wool

Drinking at least 8 cups of purified water per day

Drinking more water during dry or cold seasons, after exercising, and after consuming alcohol

Adding essential omega-3 fatty acids (found in walnuts, flaxseed, hemp seed and cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel, cod, tuna, and sardines) into the diet or via supplement

Applying aloe vera gel

Applying natural oils to the skin as a moisturizer, such as coconut, jojoba and avocado oils

If you experience severe dry skin, your healthcare provider may prescribe medication, such as a corticosteroid or immune modulator, to help alleviate your dry skin symptoms. If one or more dry skin conditions are at play, treatment will also focus on addressing the underlying condition.

With proper treatment, you can help address the causes of very dry skin, restoring ample moisture and hydration to your irritated, red, or cracked skin. To meet with a healthcare provider who can help to identify the signs of dry skin and implement new skin care strategies, call (727) 312-4126 or contact Evolution online.